Protective Effects of Nigella Sativa and Propolis against Cadmium or Lead Induced Nephrotoxicity: An Experimental Histological and Biochemical Study

Abstract

Background: Water pollution by heavy metals is a dangerous health problem causing multiple system diseases. Natural materials, such as nigella sativa and propolis, appear to offer a good preventive of pollution in comparison to more costly technologies currently in use. The Aim of The Work: This study aimed to evaluate and compare the potential protective effects of propolis and nigella sativa against the Cadmium and Lead toxicity harmful effects on the kidney structure and functions of adult male rats.Materials and Methods: Seventy adult male albino rats were chosen as an animal model for this study, divided into seven equal groups [each 10 rats]: Group I, the control group received the standard diet and normal saline [1 ml/kg body weight [BW]/day]; Group II for cadmium [Cd]; Group III for cadmium plus nigella sativa; Group IV for cadmium plus propolis; Group V for lead [Pb]; Group VI for lead plus nigella sativa and Group VII for lead plus Propolis. Each rat received [0.5 ml/rat] of its prepared solution orally every day for 15 days. At the end of the experiment, rats were sacrificed and blood samples were collected for the assessment of kidney functions. Then, the kidney was removed and prepared for histopathological and immunohistochemical examination. Finally, the kidney tissue homogenate was prepared for assessments of renal malondialdehyde [MDA].Results: Exposure of rats to Cd. chloride and Pb. acetate resulted in a significant increase in serum creatinine, urea, uric acid, and renal MDA levels and induced histopathological alterations in kidney tissue. But concomitant administration of lead or cadmium with nigella sativa or propolis were associated with amelioration of the kidney impairment induced by lead or cadmium. Conclusion: The natural antioxidants, nigella sativa and propolis, are capable of minimizing the hazardous effects of cadmium chloride or lead acetate on the kidney.

Keywords

• lheavy metals
• lead acetate
• cadmium chloride
• nephrotoxicity
• nigella sativa
• propolis